Graham Clark
Music Features Writer
9:13 AM 13th January 2018
lifestyle
Hotel Indigo, Durham
Outside view of the new Indigo Durham Hotel
Finding its home in a 100 year old Masonic hall with views of the city's cathedral, Hotel Indigo Durham will be opening its doors in the early part of this year. Previously the building was the former Old Shire Hall which housed the county council and was last used as an administrative centre for Durham University until 2012.
Moments away from the historic city centre and 5 minutes from Durham railway station the hotel is perfectly placed to visit the cathedral and the castle.
Finished bedroom
The hotel will have 83 contemporary bedrooms inspired by the city's Norman ancestry whilst combining technology, style and comfort they say. Because of the style of the building each room is a different shape, the finished room I saw looked warm, homely and classy.
Finished bathroom
With stunning views of the cathedral from most rooms, local products in the complimentary mini fridge and toiletries sourced from the local area with photographs of the city hanging from the walls you certainly know that you are in Durham.
There is also going to be a Fitness Suite and an on-site car park which will be a big bonus, as if you have ever tried to park in Durham you will know that it can be a problem.
The site of the Marco Pierre White restaurant
The on-site restaurant will be a 100 seater Marco Pierre White Steakhouse and Grill. There is also going to be a cocktail lounge as well as an on-site Tinderbox coffee shop.
Marbled staircase
On a site visit I was pleased to see that they have kept the period features such as the tiled marble staircases, wood panelling and stained glass windows in this Grade 11 listed building.
Reception desk
Apparently it has cost 15 million to redevelop the building into what looks like one of the best hotels to open in Durham in years.
Hotel Indigo, Old Shire Hall, Old Elvet, Durham DH1 3HP
www.hotelindigo.com